Competitors set for Rodeo 2007

  • Published
  • By Public Affairs
  • Air Mobility Command
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  More than 55 US and international teams will participate in Air Mobility Command's Rodeo 2007 July 22 - 28 at McChord Air Force Base, Wash. The competition focuses on readiness, and features airdrop, air refueling, and other events showcasing security forces, aerial port, maintenance and aeromedical evacuation personnel.

There are 45 U.S. teams including three from the Marine Corps and one from the Coast Guard as well as international competitors from Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Egypt, Germany, Netherlands, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. Nineteen other countries are sending observer teams.

"The diversity of this year's competition shows the importance of having such an event," said Lt. Col. Chris Duffek, Rodeo 2007 Director. "In today's climate we are working more and more with other branches of service and other countries. Competitions such a Rodeo give us a chance to focus on improving our worldwide air mobility forces' professional core abilities."

The last biennial competition took place in June 2005 at McChord AFB. While the operations tempo remains high, Maj. Gen. Scott Gray, USAF Expeditionary Center commander and Rodeo 2007 commander, says it's important that AMC continue this key event.

"Rodeo showcases AMC's best of the best and allows us to train and learn through spirited competition," said General Gray. "Not only does this world-class competition train mobility forces for the fight, it provides a forum for Airmen and our international partners to share the best of tactics and techniques. Improvement and cooperation are essential in the continued pursuit of the Global War on Terrorism."

Rodeo's roots began in 1962 as a combat skills competition designed to develop and improve techniques/procedures while enhancing air mobility operations, and promoting esprit de corps. In 1979, Rodeo was expanded to include international air mobility partners. Rodeo tests the flight and ground skills of aircrews as well as the related skills of security forces, aerial port operations, aeromedical evacuation, and maintenance team members. It also provides valuable joint and combined training for all participants.

An important long-term benefit is increased cooperation among international air mobility forces. Collectively, the ultimate goal of the competition is to develop and improve techniques and procedures that enhance air mobility operations. Spirited competition furthers that aim, while strengthening the mutual goals and bonds of friendship developed between competing teams.

A total of 14 competitors representing McConnell AFB will feature in aircrew, maintenance and security forces events, said Team Chief Maj. Troy Davis, 349th Air Refueling Squadron.